Giftun Islands
The Giftun Islands sit in the Red Sea about 10 km off Hurghada, inside a protected marine area. You can reach them only by boat on a day trip from the marina or your hotel, and a protected-area fee is usually added to the trip price.
Just off the coast of Hurghada lie the Giftun Islands, Giftun Kebir (Big Giftun) and Giftun Soghayar (Little Giftun). They fall within a protected area, so there are no settlements or hotels, only desert, beaches and the reefs that ring them.
Boats from Hurghada pull up at the islands' white beaches and at reefs nearby for snorkelling among corals and reef fish, with turtles and dolphins sometimes showing up. For many visitors this is the quintessential Hurghada day out.
What to see
- White-sand beaches and shallow turquoise lagoons
- Snorkelling over the coral reefs
- A chance of dolphins and turtles on the way out
Visiting
- Getting there: by boat only; day trips depart from Hurghada's marina and hotels
- Fees: the protected-area fee is usually added to the trip price, so check what is included
- Bring: reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water, as shade is scarce
- Respect: do not touch or stand on coral, and do not feed the fish
- Nearby: Hurghada Marina
Getting there
Coordinates: 27.2167, 33.9333
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to the Giftun Islands?
Only by boat. Day trips leave from Hurghada's marina and from hotels.
Is there a fee for the Giftun Islands?
Yes, a protected-area fee, usually added to the price of the trip. Ask what is included before you book.
What should I bring to Giftun?
Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water, as there is little shade. Do not touch or stand on the coral, and do not feed the fish.